Virgin Media gets thumbs up from music industry

With the exception of illegal downloaders, broadband providers are among the least likely parties to turn up on record companies’ Christmas card lists. But after announcing a crackdown, Virgin Media it seems can at least expect some form of seasonal salutations.

The warm embrace of the music industry follows Virgin Media’s intimations that it will suspend access to the internet for inveterate illegal downloaders. Also finding favour among the creative industries is the introduction of an unlimited music download subscription service.

The BPI has been perhaps the most free with its praise by dubbing the ISP’s response as proof that “graduated response is a workable way forward”. Meanwhile, Universal, which is the first major to sign up for Virgin Media’s service, said that the news was especially heartening due to the fact that the company’s super-fast connections have proved a “haven” for illegal downloaders.

Of course, how effective the anti-piracy measures will be and whether the service will enjoy much in the way of take-up is another matter. But after recent months suggested content providers and ISPs' relationship was soured beyond redemption, it’s nice to see the two sectors proving they can get along after all.

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